If there’s anything better than an ordinary internet connection, then it’s a fiber optic connection. It is known for its faster speeds and high bandwidth. Additionally, it has a lower ping rate and latency.
Now the thing is fiber optic connection requires specific routers. You need fiber optic routers for this type of internet connection.
However, finding the best fiber optic router is not easy. With so many options available on the market, it becomes difficult to choose the right one. But no worries, we have got your back.
In this guide, we will suggest some of the best fiber optic routers for home or office internet. So if you are planning to buy one, you may find this article helpful.
7 Best Router for Fiber Optic Internet
#1. NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 Router (RAXE500) – Editor’s Pick
Starting the list with Netgear RAXE500, a WiFi 6-based router that is designed to deliver a fast and smooth internet connection to multiple devices at the same time. With this beast of a router, you can enjoy surfing the internet without any delays or interruptions.
Why Is It Unique?
With WiFi 6 technology, Netgear RAXE500 offers 50% better performance than WiFi 5-based routers. It has faster speeds, better security, battery, and data management.
Additionally, it can connect to multiple devices at the same time. To be exact, you can add up to 60 devices and still enjoy speeds of up to 10.8 Gbps on all the devices. This is what makes it an ideal choice for home and office use.
As far as network coverage is concerned, Netgear RAXE500 can cover about 3,500 square feet of area. That’s not all. The router is equipped with 5 Ethernet ports, allowing users to connect to other devices using Ethernet cables.
Buyer’s Experience
Based on the user’s review, we can tell that Netgear RAXE500 is the best router for fiber optics within this price range. Besides being a high-performance router, it offers strong security features to keep your network protected.
Users prefer this router over other options because of parental controls. This feature enables them to restrict inappropriate or harmful content for their children.
Compared to other routers, Netgear RAXE500 has an easy installation and setup process. Users can adjust their WiFi settings and other things using the mobile app.
Other things that make this router a best-buy include MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies. They work together to enable the router to connect to devices quickly. The Beamforming technology, on the other hand, helps extend the range and speed of the router.
So you can see there are plenty of reasons for buyers to prefer Netgear RAXE500 over other fiber optic routers.
Pros
- High bandwidth
- Less congestion
- Maximized range
- Fast and reliable internet speed
- Has parental controls
Cons
- Lack of advanced features
- Expensive
Best Fit For
Given the specifications and features of Netgear RAXE500, it makes an ideal choice for individuals with large homes. It can also be used in small offices where they use over 50-60 devices.
#2. TP-Link AX5400 Dual Band WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX73) – Best Overall
TP-Link has always been the buyer’s favorite when it comes to buying routers. This budget-friendly router delivers a high-speed internet connection with advanced technologies like OFDMA, beamforming, MU-MIMO, and QoS. It can reach speeds of up to 5400 Mbps which is fast enough for gaming and streaming. Now before you decide to get this router, let us walk you through its features.
Why Is It Unique?
TP-Link Archer AX73 is one of the best routers in terms of performance. It increases the average throughput by letting users connect several devices to the network.
OFDMA uses multiple streams, while MU-MIMO uses only one to boost the efficiency of your internet connection.
With a powerful router like this, you need to worry about security issues. The network scanner feature will keep you safe from any possible cyber-attacks. Features like these are essential to make users feel safe when browsing the internet.
Whenever engaging in data-intensive tasks, you may find the QoS feature useful as it helps increase the bandwidth on devices that you are using.
Buyer’s Experience
Talking about users, they are content with the speed and performance of the router. With features like parental controls, they can restrict harmful content and prevent children from watching it. Not only that, but you can also restrict the time limit so they don’t spend a lot of time online.
Another good thing about this router is its ability to share media files across devices. This is made possible with USB ports that let users connect additional devices.
Pros
- Air vents for proper cooling
- Greater coverage area
- Can connect multiple devices at the same time
- Easy setup process
- Includes parental controls
Cons
- Firmware update needed
- 2.4 Ghz may have issues
Best Fit For
This router is perfect for users with multiple devices, or a large home. If you need a faster connection for data-intensive tasks, this router is for you.
#3. NETGEAR Orbi Tri-band Mesh WiFi 6 Router (RBK853) – Best Mesh Wi-Fi System
Next in the line, we have Netgear Orbi RBK853 which is one of the top-rated mesh WiFi systems on the market. Equipped with WiFi 6 technology it offers high-speed connection at all times. Someone who is aiming to enjoy a smart home experience can opt for this router.
Why Is It Unique?
With Netgear Orbi RBK853 you don’t have to worry about delayed connections. It provides enough bandwidth to all the connected devices.
If we talk about its network range, it can cover up to 7500 square feet. This should be enough for users with large homes or offices. Plus, it can handle 100 devices at the same time.
In case 7500 square feet is not enough, you can get an additional satellite to extend the coverage area up to 2500 square feet. The only thing is that you have to buy the satellite separately.
Buyer’s Experience
We checked buyers’ reviews online and the majority of them seem to be satisfied with this mesh Wi-Fi system. According to them, it is the best fiber optic router for office usage.
Typically, mesh routers have a complex setup process. This is where Netgear Orbi RBK853 differs from other options. It offers an easy setup process, allowing you to get started with the unit in minutes.
For convenience, it has Ethernet ports on each satellite. Plus, you can connect a variety of devices to the router.
Another great thing about this router is the 30-day free trial for Netgear Armor which will keep you protected from internet attacks. Even the smart parental controls also have a 30-day free trial.
Pros
- Large coverage area
- Free trial for Netgear Armor
- Wi-Fi 6 technology
- Smart parental controls
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Too pricey
- Firmware may have issues
Best Fit For
Netgear Orbi RBK853 is overkill for small homes or offices. It is best suited for those who need extensive coverage. It can connect more than 100 devices at the same time.
#4. ASUS ROG Rapture WiFi 6 (GT-AX11000) – Best For Gaming
When it comes to gaming routers, Asus is hands down the best choice. It offers powerful gaming routers that are designed to provide the ultimate gaming experience. If you want your gaming sessions to be free of interruptions and delays, Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 would be the best choice for you.
Why Is It Unique?
Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 serves as the best router for gamers. With three-level acceleration, it ensures improved game latency and ping rate.
The performance of the router is further enhanced with AiMesh Technology. It ensures that no corner of your home is outside the network coverage.
It utilizes multiple routers positioned at different locations in your home. In other words, it acts as a central control system for your network.
What we like about this router is that allows you to use both an ordinary internet connection and a VPN on your devices. When playing multiplayer games, you can use port forwarding for a better experience.
Buyer’s Experience
As far as buyers are concerned, they have said only good things about this router. This high-performance gaming router has everything that you may need to enjoy an amazing gaming experience.
With this router, you can do port forwarding in just three simple steps. All you need to do is select a game, find a device, and then activate the game.
It has a unique feature called Game Radar that allows you to check the ping rate of several servers.
Pros
- Best for Gaming
- Provides whole home coverage
- Advance control and monitoring
- 4 Ethernet ports
- Tri-band router
Cons
- Has a slow throughout
- Bit expensive
Best Fit For
Although this router is built for gaming purposes, it also makes an ideal choice for very large homes. With its high flexibility, it offers excellent roaming capabilities.
#5. TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX21) – Best Budget Friendly
If you are looking for the best fiber optic router within a limited budget, look no further than TP-Link Archer AX21. It is designed to provide top-notch performance and elevate your office or home connectivity experience. To buy this router you don’t have to break your bank.
Why Is It Unique?
TP-Link Archer AX21 offers speeds of 1.8 Gbps along with advanced functionality. Even though it costs less than $100, it promises an uninterrupted connection throughout your home.
It is a WiFi 6 technology router that offers unmatched efficiency and speed. On top of that it is equipped with advanced technologies like MU-MIMO and OFDMA. Some of you wouldn’t expect such features from a budget-friendly router like this. But then TP-Link doesn’t like to disappoint its customers.
Coming to range and coverage, Archer AX21 has beamforming technology that helps optimize signal strength. It channels the signals to devices, ensuring an uninterrupted connection.
Buyer’s Experience
This router is popular among buyers because of the cost factor. Despite being a low-budget router, it offers features that are typically, found in high-end routers.
Beyond the budget, users prefer this router for its easy installation steps. Unlike some other routers, TP-Link Archer AX21 doesn’t require users to spend hours on the setup. Using the official TP-Link app, you can complete the setup in just a few minutes.
On the security end, Archer AX21 has WPA3 encryption and wireless security protocol. This ensures complete security from cyber threats while surfing the net.
Pros
- Robust antivirus protection
- Budget-friendly
- Intuitive mobile app
- Easy to install and setup
- WiFi 6 technology
Cons
- Not meant for larger homes
- Sometimes it drops the connection
Best Fit For
This router is best suited for small homes. With a speed of 1.8 Gbps, it can easily handle multiple devices.
#6. NETGEAR 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router (R6700AX) – Best High Performance
Netgear never disappoints when it comes to performance. If you are in search of a high-quality router at an affordable price, Netgear R6700AX could be a decent choice for you. The best thing about this router is that it has everything you need for fast a streaming experience. We have covered the specific details of this router in the lines below.
Why Is It Unique?
The first thing to talk about this router is the speed. It offers an impressive speed of 1.8 Gbps which is perfect for watching movies, streaming, and gaming.
However, the main highlight is OFDMA and 4-stream technology that enables it to handle multiple devices with ease. It distributes bandwidth across all devices so you can enjoy faster speeds. From laptops to gaming consoles, you can connect various devices to this router.
To further enhance the performance, the router is equipped with external antennas and amplifiers. It helps expand coverage and eliminate dead zones in your home.
Buyer’s Experience
Netgear R6700AX is regarded as the best router in terms of ease of use. It takes just a few minutes to complete the whole setup. Using the mobile app, you can adjust network settings, update firmware, and much more.
Another thing that is worth mentioning is the security level of the router. It comes with options like parental controls, guest networks, and the latest WPA3 encryption. This ensures complete safety when browsing the internet.
Additionally, the router has built-in Netgear Armor that protects all your devices from cyber-attacks.
Pros
- Faster speeds
- Has antennas and amplifiers
- Easy setup
- Excellent security features
- High performance
Cons
- Performance could be better
- Less coverage area
Best Fit For
Whether you have a multi-floor office or a spacious home, this router offers strong signals throughout your premises. It is best meant for personal use.
#7. Linksys AX1800 WiFi 6 Router (E7350) – Best Easy Setup
Lastly, we have Linksys E7350 which is one of the most user-friendly routers out there. No one likes to deal with a complex setup after buying a new router. To avoid all such hassles, you should consider opting for Linksys E7350. It offers an easy setup alongside high performance.
Why Is It Unique?
Linksys E7350 is an advanced fiber optic router. It delivers fast internet speeds of 1.8 Gbps. To make things better, it has a range of useful features. For starters, it is a dual-band router, meaning it can operate on both frequencies.
The popularity of this router lies in its performance. It offers a superior range and extended coverage. Additionally, it leverages the power of beamforming technology to focus WiFi signals directly on the connected devices.
Due to the dual-band technology, you can assign one band for online activities like playing games or watching movies. The other band can be set for everyday tasks like email and web browsing.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers are not only content with the performance and quality of this router, but they also find it easy to install. With the Linksys app, it takes just a few taps to get done with the whole process.
Once you set up the router, you can use the app to adjust network settings as per your requirement. It also includes useful features like device monitoring.
It also offers strong security features including WPA3 encryption and an in-built-in SPI firewall. It helps filter traffic and ensures safety from online threats.
Pros
- Easy to install
- WPA3 encryption for maximum protection
- Beamforming technology
- Extended coverage area
- Strong and stable connection
Cons
- Not good for demanding tasks
- May have firmware issues
Best Fit For
This router is best for users seeking a reliable and fast internet connection. It offers high-performance connectivity for home usage.
What To Look For When Buying Best Fiber Optic Router
Choosing the best fiber optic router is a crucial task. You must consider the important factors to select the right one for your use. To help you out, we have provided a buyer’s guide below.
1. Compatibility
The first important thing to consider is the compatibility of the router with your fiber optic internet connection. Look for routers that are meant to support this type of connection. Unless the router is compatible, it cannot handle the high speeds of your fiber optic connection.
If you cannot decide on a good fiber optic router, choose from the ones listed above. All of these routers are compatible with fiber optic internet connection.
2. Wireless or Wired
As you all know routers can be both wireless and wired. Now it’s up to you to decide which one you want. Check if the router has an adequate number of ports to connect all your wired devices. A wired connection offers better connectivity than a wireless connection.
However, if you are more inclined towards a wireless connection, then make sure that your router supports the latest WiFi standards. This will ensure better performance, better coverage, and faster speeds. By connecting multiple devices to the router you can enjoy optimal performance.
3. Speed
When buying a new fiber optic router, you simply cannot ignore the speed factor. Look for a router that can handle high speeds with ease. You need a router that is designed for fiber optic internet connection. These routers have high transfer rates and offer speeds of 1000 Mbps.
By choosing such a router, you can enjoy uninterrupted surfing at all times. Also, it will be able to handle your fiber optic internet connection.
4. Dual-band or Tri-band
The next important thing is to check if the router is dual-band or tri-band. As the name suggests, dual-band routers operate on two frequencies. Tri-band routers, on the other hand, offer an additional 5 Ghz band. This makes these routers ideal for connecting multiple devices at the same time.
Multiple bands help distribute the network load across different bands. As a result, you experience enhanced performance and less congestion. It provides improved efficiency and speed even with connected devices. For a smooth browsing experience, we suggest you choose a tri-band router.
5. Coverage Area
You must also consider the coverage area of the router. The signal strength of a router depends on features like beamforming technology and antennas. These things enable the router to extend the network range. Not to mention, it also improves the signal quality.
For larger homes, mesh WiFi systems are the best. It helps cover a vast area and eliminate any dead zones.
Best Fiber Optic Router FAQs
Q1. What are fiber optic routers needed for?
Ans: A fiber optic router can deliver all the fiber optic speed through to your network. It is needed for a fiber internet connection.
Q2. What is the best brand for fiber optic routers?
Ans: Netgear and TP-Link are two of the best brands for buying fiber optic routers.
Q3. Why should you choose fiber optic internet?
Ans: Fiber optic internet offers faster speeds, higher bandwidth, lower latency, and less ping rate.
Q4. How fast are fiber optic routers?
Ans: Fiber optic routers offer speeds above 1000 Mbps.
Q5. Are fiber optic routers expensive?
Ans: The cost of fiber optic routers depends on their specifications and features.
Conclusion on Best Fiber Optic Router
Choosing the best fiber optic router ensures reliable and faster connectivity. The routers reviewed in this post are some of the best options on the market. These routers stand for performance, speed, and quality. Now that you are familiar with the specifications of the routers, it should be easier to pick one for your home or office use.
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Hi, I am James Burns a skilled and experienced network engineer with a passion for optimizing digital connectivity. With a wealth of expertise in designing and managing intricate network infrastructures, I excel in enhancing performance and security. I hold a distinguished record of delivering top-notch results in various Network courses, including the Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNCIA) certification, demonstrating my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. My dedication to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies makes me an invaluable asset in ensuring seamless and reliable network operations. Whether troubleshooting complex issues or implementing innovative solutions, I am dedicated to creating robust and efficient network environments for businesses and individuals alike.